Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Chocolate Chia Pudding

Chia seeds are very in right now- as they should be. Because they are full of fiber and protein, they leave you feeling full and content, as well as healthy! Their unique structure allows them to absorb, which is what gives you the feeling of fullness.

This recipe, they react with the almond milk making the perfect healthy and delicious pudding. With just a few simple ingredients, you will satisfy your sweet tooth while also staying clean and healthy. This recipe is also vegan friendly!

Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup Almond Milk
- 1/4 cup Chia Seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Honey to taste
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Directions:
- In a small mason jar (or any storage container) pour the almond milk and cocoa powder and mix well
- Add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and honey and stir well
- Lastly, add the chia seeds and stir
- Place a lid on the container and put in the fridge
- Stir one last time after 10 minutes and let sit for a few hours
- I topped mine off with some fresh berries!



Enjoy!

Sunday, September 8, 2013

Zesty Tzatziki

If you love Mediterranean food like I do, then you know that tzatziki is a staple dipping sauce when eating a gyro, falafel, or chicken kebobs. However, the calories and fat adds up- making it not so appealing. However, this recipe solves that problem, allowing for spoonfuls and spoonfuls to be enjoyed! The secret ingredient that makes it healthier? None other than non-fat Greek yogurt! The taste and flavor is still there, guilt free.

Ingredients:
- 1/3 Cup Non-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt
- Zest of Cucumber
- Half of a Lemon
- 1 Teaspoon of Dill

Directions:
- In a small bowl, add the yogurt
- Zest cucumber in the yogurt bowl, as much or as little- depends on your taste. I used about 1/4 of the cucumber
- Juice half of the lemon in the bowl
- Sprinkle the dill in and mix
- That's it!

Here is a link to a healthy falafel recipe that pairs perfectly with the tzatziki, made by yours truly!

http://annarebeccastable.blogspot.com/2013/09/fresh-and-tasty-falafel.html


Enjoy!

Fresh and Tasty Falafel

Mediterranean food is one of the healthiest out there. There's been articles highlighting the diet and the health benefits it offers.

Perfecting how to make falafel has always been on my 'to do' recipe lists, and I finally found the opportunity and recipe to try it! It was simple and quick, and when tweaked just right, it was as healthy as can be.

Ingredients:
- 1 can Garbanzo Beans
- Fresh Dill
- Fresh Cilantro
- About 2 Teaspoons Curry Powder
- About 2 Teaspoons Paprika
- Pinch of sesame seeds
- 1/4 Cup Oats
- 1/8 Cup Red Onion

Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
- Drain the can of beans and chop (or use a food processor) until they are formable and place in a medium mixing bowl
- Chop fresh dill and cilantro and add into the bowl (use as much or little as you see fit)
- Add the curry, paprika, sesame seeds, and oats to the bowl
- Lastly, chop the red onion and add to the bowl
- Mix all ingredients together
- Next, form balls (about the size of an ice cream scoop) When I made this, my mixture made 5 evenly sized falafel
- Spray a cooking sheet with cooking spray, and place the falafels on it
- Drizzle a little olive oil, then place in the oven for about 15 minutes.
- Check after the 15 minutes to make sure they are done, if not, put back in the oven for another 5 as well as turn over the falafels, and another 5 after that if they are still not done


Enjoy!